From a design perspective I look to incorporate two core aspects into my work: function and fusion. These elements always form a basis to my design work and feature at the heart of my portfolio. I believe these, combined with my love for industrial imagery and geometric shapes, give my work its own unique aesthetic.
or every new collection I start by referring to tailoring of the past to create a strong core silhouette in which to base my design work. I combine this with a modern and more relevant theme, chiefly something that makes the tailoring practical and functional. In the past this has been street-wear, work-wear or sportswear, which allows me to use modern, technical fabrics and detailing whilst maintaining a traditional foundation. Alongside this, I also take inspiration from non-trend sources such as welding safety-gear, wetsuits, sculpture and photography. I like to refer to these for detailing and colour. It makes the project unpredictable and edgy and allows me to create an original, exciting concept. I always aim to follow my instincts and choose subjects that inspire me; an aspect that often results in a very organic research process.
I am a very technical designer and get much enjoyment from the little details that go into a garment. My time working in a pattern room has allowed me to understand how tailored garments are constructed. The knowledge I've gained through this learning experience has proven invaluable when designing all clothing.
I was selected to have my capsule collection featured in the Kingston University press release show. I received unanimous acclaim from the design department and industry specialists for the success of my collection.
I entered the Lindstrom international corporate work-wear competition as part of a team of four and was awarded second prize. The menswear chef's outfit, which I designed, received an extra award for 'best chef's outfit' as an example of a modern interpretation of traditional chef's garments.
I entered the Gas Jeans competition and was chosen to have an outfit modelled on the catwalk at the press show. It was a project set for the students of Kingston University and out of the sixty or so that entered, I was one of sixteen to be selected to have my outfit put before the judges. I was runner-up.
I feel that there is still a big gap in the market for practical clothing that can be worn directly into an office environment or smart occasion. This, combined with the recent publicised government encouragement and active promotion of cycling in London, has furthered my belief that a gap in the market exists.
With this in mind I have been looking into high visibility clothing, reflective fabrics and current cycle-wear. My desire is to create urban collections that combine traditional tailoring, but with functional features that prove both practical and comfortable when on the move.